Located in the northwest corner of Armenia, the Shirak Region and it's capital city of Gyumri was once a stop on the legendary silk road. Today, Shirak Tours helps travelers to explore this rich land of ancient kings, emperors, mongols, christians and pagans.

Friday, 17 April 2009

Kumayri-Alexandrapol-Leninakan-Gyumri

Gyumri-Historical Overview

Although its name has changed from Kumayri to Gyumri, to Alexandrapol, then to Leninakan and then to Gyumri again, the history of the town illustrates both continuity and innovation. One of the ancient settlements of the Northern Armenia, Gyumri is a town that has a history of over 3,000 years, a town that started the culture of urbanization in Armenia, was the birthplace of Armenian opera, was where, in the Soviet times, the first school of arts opened in the USSR, and had the first university in modern Armenian history.The town was the birthplace of Merkurov and Gyurjieff, Isahakian and Minas, Tigranian and Frunzik. Gyumri is a town which preserves unique specimens of the culture of Armenian urbanization, marvelous architectural complexes, whole traditional quarters, streets, public and commercial buildings, as well as unique fortifications.There were over 100 different crafts and 34 unions active in Alexandropol in the end of the 19th century. Masons from Alexandropol were invited to build houses in Tbilisi, Baku and Kars, the work of the jewelers from Alexandropol was displayed in international exhibitions and the beer brewed at the Tsaghikians brewery was sold all over the Caucasus.
Gyumri is a town that has seen and survived a disastrous earthquake in 1988 and has also witnessed the love and affection of all the humanity, a town which even today lives and creates despite the large number of unsolved problems and difficulties, which are present for every family in their everyday lives.

Shirak Tours tour company is pleased to offer tours in Gyumri. The tour will give an opportunity to get acquainted with the center of Shirak region, Gyumri, to its culture, traditions and friendly hospitable people. A tour with the professional guide is a unique chance to visit old city Gyumri, its architectural monuments and streets, house-museums of famous Gyumrian writers and actors, as well as the main churches of the city.Just use this chance to come to know Gyumri and its people.For more details please feel free to contact us at shiraktours@gmail.com

About Me

Shirak Tours aims to introduce travelers to the unique Shirak region. From ancient times, Armenians have cherished their artistic traditions, which reflect a unique culture and landscape. Gyumri, the former artistic capital of Armenia, is a great place to learn about these traditions. Shirak Tours brings visitors a sharing of the heart, a rich ancient history, friendly people, great food, music and cultural interaction. For the outdoor enthusiast, Shirak is a four- season playground of hiking and skiing.